Sugar tax may have dire consequences for workers in food industry: FAWU
The Food and Allied Workers Union believes the implementation of a sugar tax could have a serious impact on the livelihoods of thousands of workers in the food industry.
Government says a 1% sugar tax will come into effect from next year.
Health Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, says the move is aimed at creating a healthier society.
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FAWU's Ernest Mmako feels government is only trying to increase its income.
He says many jobs stand to be lost.
"Now once this sugar tax is promulgated, the employers will feel a pinch and as such, they will then contemplate retrenchment in order to be able to afford this sugar tax. From the processing sugar factories to favourite companies, your sweet manufactures companies, your ice-cream manufacturing companies, dairy products in-fact - are utilising sugar," he said.